SUPERMARKET giant Lidl has shelved plans to build a store on a former mill site in Keighley.

But the discount retailer has pledged its continued commitment to opening an outlet in the town – and is inviting the public to suggest potential sites.

Lidl unveiled plans in 2022 for a store on the former Hope Mills site, at the corner of Greengate Road and South Street.

The development would have a 1,251sqm sales area and feature facilities including a bakery and customer toilets.

Around 40 full and part-time jobs would be created.

The company carried out an online public consultation, ahead of submitting a detailed planning application to Bradford Council.

However, Lidl this week confirmed that it was no longer looking to build on the plot.

A spokesperson said: "A public consultation was carried out as per our normal due diligence when exploring site options, but unfortunately the former Hope Mills site did not meet our required criteria.

"We are, however, still looking for suitable sites that will allow us to bring a new Lidl store to Keighley.

"We offer a finder’s fee to anyone who successfully puts forward a location."

Disappointment has been voiced by community leaders that the original plans have been dropped, but the company's commitment to building in Keighley is welcomed.

The town's MP, Robbie Moore, says: "Whilst it is disappointing that the original proposals for a store on the former Hope Mills site will not be progressing, I welcome the fact that Lidl is still committed to building a new store in Keighley – and I look forward to any future proposals to develop the former mill site.

"It is crucial that Lidl now sets out an updated timescale for its pledge to bring jobs and growth to our town and that it continues to consult local residents on the suitability of future sites."

Town mayor, Councillor John Kirby, says: "I am pleased that Lidl is still committed to developing a new store in Keighley. We have plenty of brownfield sites in the town where the new store could be built. I am sure Lidl will be keen to hear from members of the public about where they think the store should be built."

Lidl currently has more than 960 stores across Britain, with a target of 1,100 – and 4,000 new jobs – by the end of 2025.

Christian Hartnagel, for the company, says: "Our store target marks a significant investment for the business. We remain committed to our bricks and mortar strategy and maintaining our store opening pace; roughly a store a week.

"We will continue to bring our offer of great quality products at unbeatable value to even more communities across the country."

Members of the public with suggestions of potential sites are encouraged to check details against Lidl’s site requirements and contact the company’s property team. For more details, visit lidl.co.uk/about-us/property